ENGLISH
REFERENCE

in the way

idiom
Meaning

blocking a path or space so that people or things cannot move easily.


Examples
SIMPLE

Please move your bag, it is in the way.

CONTEXTUAL

I tried to walk through the hallway, but the boxes were in the way.

COMPLEX

The heavy furniture left by the previous tenants was in the way, making it difficult for us to move our own belongings into the apartment.

Last updated April 22, 2026